Susan Saunders, 71, of Mocksville, passed away peacefully March 4, 2026, at Gordon Hospice House in Statesville.

She was born January 18, 1955, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to the late Earnest and Delores "Pat" Lay. Susan spent most of her life in North Carolina, where she built a life centered on faith and family. Though she held various jobs throughout the years, her true calling was caring for those she loved. She found great comfort and community in her church home at Bear Creek Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 30 years, Bruce; and her sister, Marie Byers.

She is survived by her children, Melinda Kennedy (Tommy), Tracy Mohat (Doug), Stephanie Randel (Wes), and Chris Wiscarson. She also leaves behind a large and loving legacy through her grandchildren, Tad Kennedy (Jessica), Tyler Kennedy, Ashley Newby (Michael), Taylor Mohat, Kailey Wiscarson, Rachel Chambers (Andrew), Megan Daniels (Shawn), Brittani Mohat, Emily Randel, Braelyn Wiscarson, Kimberly Mohat, Josh Randel, and Eli Wiscarson; and her great-grandchildren, Adrien, Aliyana, Kyliee, Sydney, Madison, Wynter, Lucas, and Jane.

Although life's circumstances created distance in recent years, Susan's love for her children and grandchildren never wavered. She was thankful for the time they were able to share again in recent months, finding comfort and peace in those renewed connections.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of Susan's life will be conducted at 3 p.m., Sunday, March 8, at Bear Creek Baptist Church, with Rev. Greg McEwen officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be considered for the Gordon Hospice House, 2341 Simonton Rd, Statesville, NC 28625.

Online condolences www.lambertfuneralhomenc.com